An early deficit proved too much to overcome as No. 9 Florida State softball fell 8-3 to Stetson in the opening game of the Tallahassee Regional on May 15. Despite entering the postseason fresh off the program's 20th ACC championship, the Seminoles couldn't slow down a relentless Hatters offense at JoAnne Graf Field.

The tone was set early when Stetson junior catcher Logan Forman launched a no-doubt two-run home run over the left field wall in the second inning. But the Seminoles answered quickly in the bottom half, as freshman catcher Anna Hinde—a 2026 Third Team All-ACC honoree—crushed a solo shot over center field to cut the deficit to 2-1.

"Stetson came out and hit the ball and got after it and made some good pitches," FSU head coach Lonni Alameda said in the postgame press conference. "We had some good swings … we were an inch and maybe a foot [away] from some home runs there."

The Hatters extended their lead in the third inning when sophomore third baseman Amber Chumley launched a three-run home run, pushing the score to 5-1. FSU starting pitcher Jazzy Francik exited after allowing five earned runs on five hits over 2.2 innings—her third loss of the season and the most earned runs she's surrendered in a game this year.

Florida State showed fight in the bottom of the third. Junior third baseman Jaysoni Beachum singled up the middle before junior utility player Ashtyn Danley powered a two-run home run over center field, trimming the deficit to 5-3. But the Seminoles couldn't get any closer, ultimately falling 8-3.

"This time of year, hitters are hitting good pitches," Alameda added. "Stetson did a good job of capitalizing on some swings."

Now facing a win-or-go-home scenario, the Seminoles will take on Jacksonville State in a must-win elimination game. For fans looking to show their support, FSU softball gear—from jerseys to caps—is available in our collection to help you cheer on the team as they fight to keep their postseason run alive.